Print is predictable and impersonal, conveying information in a mechanical transaction with the reader's eye.Handwriting, by contrast, resists the eye, reveals its meaning slowly, and is as intimate as skin.
In "A Tale for the Time Being," Ruth Ozeki contrasts the nature of print and handwriting. She suggests that print serves a functional role, delivering information in a straightforward and mechanical way. It engages the reader's eye predictably, lacking any emotional depth or personal connection. This highlights the impersonal nature of printed text, where the communication feels detached and transactional.
On the other hand, handwriting embodies a more intimate and personal form of communication. It demands attention and unfolds its meaning gradually, evoking a sense of closeness. Ozeki likens this intimate connection to the touch of skin, emphasizing how handwritten words carry emotional weight and individuality. This distinction showcases the profound differences between mechanical print and the personal touch of handwriting.
